The Last Rosh Hashanah in Uman
Gravely ill, Rebbe Nachman still taught his Chassidim on Rosh Hashanah in Uman, and left them with a gathering that has never stopped.
A story ofRebbe Nachman of Breslovרבי נחמן מברסלבProfile ›
It is told that Rebbe Nachman had always insisted that his Chassidim be with him for Rosh Hashanah. He said it was the heart of his work, and that nothing was greater than being with him then. In 5571 several hundred came to Uman, though by then he had been ill for more than three years.
On the first day, which fell on Shabbos, he began to prepare to teach, and his cough came upon him with great force. He brought up a great deal of blood and nearly passed away. Hours went by while the crowd waited, packed so tightly that some were in danger. Finally he sent for Reb Noson and asked what could be done, for he could not speak.
Reb Noson reminded him that he had taught in weakness before. The Rebbe raised his hands and said he would give himself up in order to teach. A chair was set by the door in case he had to be carried out. He was helped to it, and in a low voice he gave the entire lesson, the one that opens Likutei Moharan II, 8.
Less than three weeks later, on the fourth day of Sukkos, he passed away in the evening. He was buried the next day, as he had wished. He had told his followers not to be afraid, since he was going ahead of them. Every Rosh Hashanah since, Chassidim have gathered at his kever in Uman.
Source: Chayei Moharan, Reb Noson's record of the Rebbe's final year (Rosh Hashanah 5571 in Uman and the passing, Sefaria sections 191, 219-221).
Think of a person or group who helps you feel closer to Hashem, and make a plan to be with them soon. It could be a weekly shiur, a Shabbos meal or just a phone call to a friend who encourages you. Being together carried Rebbe Nachman's Chassidim through decades when nothing else could. If you feel alone in your avodah, reach out to one person this week and ask how they are doing. A small circle of warmth often matters more than a big plan.